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Zebra Shovelnose Catfish Care Guide – Tank Setup, Feeding and Breeding

ByTankora

Quick summary

The Zebra Shovelnose Catfish is an expert-only species, growing 60-80 cm and requiring a minimum 1500-litre tank, so it’s not suitable unless you can provide a huge, powerful filtration setup and stable water quality long-term. If you’re a beginner or lack space for a giant predatory catfish with a 15-20 year lifespan, this is not the right fish for you.

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In this guide:

Introduction

The Zebra Shovelnose Catfish (Brachyplatystoma tigrinum) is one of the most visually spectacular large catfish available in the freshwater aquarium trade. Hailing from the river systems of the Amazon and Orinoco basins, this pimelodid catfish commands attention with its bold black-and-white striped pattern reminiscent of a zebra’s markings. While its appearance is undeniably captivating, this is emphatically not a species for the casual hobbyist. Adults can reach lengths exceeding 60 cm in captivity, and considerably more in the wild, meaning that only aquarists with very large tanks and considerable experience should contemplate keeping one.

Brachyplatystoma tigrinum belongs to the family Pimelodidae, a diverse group of long-whiskered catfish found throughout South America. Within the genus Brachyplatystoma, the Zebra Shovelnose is arguably the most sought-after ornamental species, largely due to its striking patterning. However, the genus also includes some truly enormous catfish – some members grow well beyond a metre – so any keeper considering this species should understand the scale of the commitment involved.

In the wild, Zebra Shovelnose Catfish inhabit deep, fast-flowing channels in major river systems. They are powerful, predatory fish that feed on other fish and large invertebrates. Their elongated, hydrodynamic body shape reflects a life spent navigating strong currents. In captivity, they require spacious tanks with excellent filtration, stable water quality, and a diet of high-quality protein-rich foods. They are typically solitary and can be aggressive towards conspecifics and similarly sized tankmates, adding another layer of complexity to their care.

Despite these challenges, for the experienced aquarist who can provide the right environment, the Zebra Shovelnose Catfish is a truly rewarding species to keep. Its dramatic appearance, impressive size, and engaging predatory behaviour make it a centrepiece fish without equal. This guide provides comprehensive information on every aspect of its care, from tank setup and water parameters to diet, breeding, and disease prevention.

Quick Stats

Scientific name Brachyplatystoma tigrinum
Common names Zebra Shovelnose Catfish, Tiger Shovelnose Catfish, Zebra Pim, Tigrinus Catfish
Family Pimelodidae
Origin Amazon and Orinoco river basins, South America (Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela, Peru)
Adult size 60-80 cm (up to 100 cm in the wild)
Lifespan 15-20 years
Difficulty Expert
Breeding difficulty Expert
Temperature 24-28 °C
pH range 6.0-7.5
General hardness (GH) 2-15 dGH
Carbonate hardness (KH) 2-10 dKH
Minimum tank size 1500 litres
Conservation status Not Evaluated

Appearance

The Zebra Shovelnose Catfish is among the most strikingly patterned freshwater fish in the world. Its body is elongated, laterally compressed towards the tail, and covered in a bold pattern of irregular black or very dark brown bands and stripes set against a creamy white to pale silvery base colour. The stripes vary in width and spacing from individual to individual, giving each fish a unique appearance. These markings extend across the body, head, fins, and barbels, creating a visually dramatic whole.

The head is characteristically flattened and broad – the “shovelnose” shape typical of the genus Brachyplatystoma. The snout is elongated and somewhat spatulate, giving the fish a distinctive profile when viewed from above. The mouth is wide and subterminal, positioned on the underside of the head, well suited to its predatory lifestyle. The fish possesses three pairs of long, prominent barbels: one pair of maxillary barbels extending from the upper jaw that can reach back to the caudal fin or beyond, and two pairs of shorter mandibular barbels on the lower jaw. All barbels are typically banded in the same zebra pattern as the body.

The dorsal fin is positioned relatively far forward on the body and is tall with a strong leading spine. The adipose fin is small but present, as is typical for pimelodid catfish. The caudal fin is deeply forked, an adaptation for sustained swimming in fast currents. The pectoral fins also possess hardened leading spines that can be locked in an erect position – a defensive mechanism that keepers should be mindful of when handling or netting the fish, as these spines can cause painful injuries and can become entangled in fine mesh nets.

Juvenile specimens tend to display particularly vivid and well-defined striping, with a higher contrast between the dark bands and the pale base colour. As the fish matures, the patterning may soften slightly, with bands sometimes becoming somewhat less sharply defined, though the overall appearance remains impressive throughout the fish’s life. The eyes are relatively small in proportion to the head, reflecting the species’ reliance on its barbels and lateral line system rather than vision for detecting prey in murky, deep-water environments.

In terms of sexual dimorphism, differences between males and females are not well documented and are difficult to discern externally, particularly in captive specimens. Mature females may appear slightly broader in the body when gravid, but this is not a reliable method of sexing.

Natural Habitat

Brachyplatystoma tigrinum is native to the major river systems of tropical South America, primarily the Amazon and Orinoco basins. Its range spans several countries, including Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela, and Peru. Within these vast drainage systems, the species tends to inhabit the main channels of large, deep rivers rather than tributaries or floodplain habitats. It is associated with fast-flowing, well-oxygenated waters over sandy or rocky substrates.

The rivers in which this species is found are characterised by significant depth, powerful currents, and often limited visibility due to suspended sediment. Water in these systems tends to be warm, soft, and slightly acidic to neutral, though conditions can vary seasonably with the annual flood pulse. During the wet season, rivers swell and inundate surrounding forests, dramatically altering the habitat. During the dry season, water levels drop, concentrating fish in the main channels.

In its natural environment, the Zebra Shovelnose Catfish is a benthic to midwater predator, spending much of its time near the riverbed or in deeper pools. It is primarily a piscivore, feeding on smaller fish, though it will also take large invertebrates such as freshwater shrimp and crabs. The species is generally solitary, encountering conspecifics mainly during breeding migrations. Like other members of the genus Brachyplatystoma, it is believed to undertake long-distance upstream migrations for spawning purposes, though the specific reproductive ecology of B. tigrinum is not as well studied as that of some of its larger relatives such as B. rousseauxii.

The natural habitat provides important clues for captive care. The preference for deep, fast-flowing water means that aquariums should provide strong water movement, high oxygen levels, and ample swimming space. The soft, slightly acidic water chemistry of the Amazon basin should be replicated as closely as possible, and the substrate should be fine sand or smooth gravel to avoid damage to the fish’s sensitive barbels.

Tank Size and Setup

A minimum tank size of 1500 litres is required for a single adult Zebra Shovelnose Catfish, though larger is always preferable. Given that this species can reach 60-80 cm or more in captivity, anything smaller will result in stunted growth, stress, and ultimately a shortened lifespan. The tank should prioritise length and width over height, as these catfish spend most of their time in the lower portions of the water column. A tank measuring at least 300 cm in length and 75 cm in width is a reasonable starting point for a single adult specimen.

Juvenile specimens can be started in somewhat smaller tanks – a 500-litre aquarium may suffice for a fish under 20 cm – but keepers must plan for the eventual adult size from the outset. Growth can be rapid under optimal conditions, and a young Zebra Shovelnose can outgrow a moderate-sized tank within a year or two. Purchasing this species without a concrete plan for housing the adult is irresponsible and will ultimately harm the fish.

The substrate should consist of fine sand or smooth, rounded gravel. Coarse or sharp substrates can damage the fish’s delicate barbels, leading to infections and reducing the fish’s ability to locate food. A layer of fine river sand of at least 2-3 cm in depth is ideal. Some keepers opt for bare-bottom tanks for ease of maintenance, which is a perfectly acceptable approach provided the glass base does not cause the fish stress.

Decor should be kept relatively minimal to maximise swimming space, but some structure is beneficial. Large pieces of driftwood, smooth boulders, and PVC pipe sections can provide shelter and help the fish feel secure. Ensure that any decor is heavy enough or securely anchored so that it cannot be dislodged by the fish, which is both powerful and capable of rearranging its environment. Avoid sharp-edged rocks or ornaments that could injure the fish.

Live plants are generally impractical with this species. The combination of the fish’s size, the strong water flow required, and the low-light conditions preferred by the catfish make planted setups difficult to maintain. Hardy species such as Anubias or Java Fern attached to driftwood may survive, but the fish is likely to uproot anything planted in the substrate. Floating plants can be used to diffuse overhead lighting and provide a sense of cover.

Lighting should be subdued, as the Zebra Shovelnose is a crepuscular to nocturnal species that is most active in dim conditions. Overly bright lighting can cause stress and may result in the fish hiding constantly. Dimmer LED fixtures, or standard lights on a timer with a relatively short photoperiod, are recommended. Some keepers use moonlight or blue LED settings during the evening to observe the fish during its more active periods.

A secure, tight-fitting lid is essential. While the Zebra Shovelnose is not typically described as a jumper in the way some other large catfish are, powerful fish of this size can occasionally launch themselves out of the water when startled, and the consequences of a 60 cm catfish landing on the floor are severe for both the fish and the keeper.

Water Parameters

Maintaining stable, high-quality water is absolutely critical for the Zebra Shovelnose Catfish. This species comes from large river systems with relatively consistent water chemistry, and it does not tolerate fluctuations well. Ammonia and nitrite must always be at zero, and nitrate should be kept as low as possible. The large bioload produced by a fish of this size means that robust filtration and regular, substantial water changes are non-negotiable.

Temperature 24-28 °C
pH 6.0-7.5
General hardness (GH) 2-15 dGH
Carbonate hardness (KH) 2-10 dKH
Ammonia 0 ppm
Nitrite 0 ppm
Nitrate Below 20 ppm

Temperature should be maintained within the 24-28 °C range, with 26 °C being a good target for most setups. A reliable, appropriately rated aquarium heater – or preferably two heaters for redundancy in a large system – should be used, and the heater should be protected with a heater guard to prevent the fish from burning itself against the element. Titanium heaters or inline heaters connected to the filtration system are excellent choices for large catfish tanks.

The species prefers soft to moderately hard water, which reflects the conditions found in its native Amazonian and Orinocan habitats. While it can adapt to a range of hardness values, extremes should be avoided. If your tap water is very hard, blending with reverse osmosis (RO) water may be necessary to achieve suitable conditions.

Water changes of 30-50% weekly are recommended for tanks housing this species. The substantial waste output of a large predatory catfish, combined with the protein-rich diet it requires, means that organic waste accumulates quickly. A consistent water change schedule is one of the most important aspects of keeping this fish healthy. Use a dechlorinator rated for the full volume of new water being added, and match the temperature of replacement water as closely as possible to avoid thermal shock.

Filtration and Equipment

Filtration for a Zebra Shovelnose Catfish tank must be powerful, efficient, and capable of handling a very heavy bioload. The total filtration capacity should turn over the tank volume at least 6-10 times per hour. For a 1500-litre system, this means a combined flow rate of 9000-15000 litres per hour. This is best achieved through the use of multiple large canister filters, a sump system, or a combination of both.

Sump-based filtration is arguably the best option for tanks of this size. A sump provides a large volume of additional water, which aids stability, and allows for the use of substantial biological media, mechanical filtration stages, and additional equipment such as heaters and UV sterilisers without cluttering the main display tank. Wet-dry trickle filters within a sump setup are particularly effective at biological filtration and gas exchange, both of which are important for maintaining water quality with a large predatory fish.

If canister filters are used, select models rated for tanks significantly larger than the one in question. Two or three large canister filters running simultaneously provide both the necessary flow rate and a degree of redundancy – if one filter fails or needs maintenance, the others continue to process waste. Biological media such as ceramic rings, sintered glass, or bio-balls should make up the majority of the media load, with mechanical filtration (foam pads, filter floss) positioned to catch particulate waste before it reaches the biological stages.

Strong water movement is beneficial and replicates the fast-flowing river habitats this species inhabits. Powerheads or wavemakers can be used to supplement filter outputs and create directional flow within the tank. The fish will actively swim into the current, and good water movement also helps ensure that dissolved oxygen levels remain high throughout the tank.

An air pump with large air stones can provide supplementary aeration, particularly in warmer water where dissolved oxygen levels are naturally lower. Whilst strong surface agitation from filters and powerheads usually provides adequate gas exchange, additional aeration is a worthwhile safety measure.

A UV steriliser is a valuable addition to any large predatory catfish system. It helps control free-floating pathogens and can reduce the incidence of disease outbreaks, which are always a risk in systems housing large, messy eaters. Install the UV unit inline with the filtration system for maximum effectiveness.

Reliable heaters, as mentioned above, are critical. Inline heaters that connect to the filtration plumbing or sump-based heaters remove the risk of the fish damaging or being burned by in-tank heaters. Whatever type is used, ensure the wattage is sufficient for the tank volume – a general guideline is 1-2 watts per litre, so a 1500-litre tank may require 1500-3000 watts of heating capacity, split across multiple units.

Diet and Feeding

The Zebra Shovelnose Catfish is an obligate predator in the wild, feeding predominantly on fish and large invertebrates. In captivity, a varied diet of high-quality protein sources is essential for health and growth. Live feeder fish should be avoided or used only sparingly, as they carry a significant risk of introducing parasites and diseases into the aquarium. Instead, the diet should be based on prepared and frozen foods.

Whole fish such as whitebait, smelt, and lancefish are excellent staple foods. These can be purchased frozen from aquarium suppliers or fishmongers and offered after thawing. Prawns and shrimp (with shells on for younger fish, peeled for variety) provide protein and essential minerals. Squid, mussel, and other seafood can be offered as supplementary items. All foods should be of high quality and fresh – avoid feeding oily fish such as mackerel or herring too frequently, as excessive dietary fat can lead to fatty liver disease over time.

Large, high-quality sinking pellets designed for predatory catfish can be used as part of the diet, and many Zebra Shovelnose Catfish will accept them readily, particularly if introduced while the fish is still young. Pellets offer a convenient way to ensure balanced nutrition, as they are typically formulated to include vitamins and minerals that whole-food diets may lack. Look for brands with fish or shrimp meal as the primary ingredient and minimal plant-based fillers.

Earthworms and nightcrawlers are another excellent food source, rich in protein and readily accepted by most individuals. They can be offered live or, if the keeper prefers, killed and frozen before use. Avoid collecting worms from areas that may have been treated with pesticides or herbicides.

Feeding frequency should be adjusted according to the fish’s size and growth rate. Juveniles and sub-adults (under 30 cm) can be fed daily or every other day. Once the fish reaches adult size, feeding two to three times per week is generally sufficient. Overfeeding is a common issue with large predatory catfish and leads to obesity, liver problems, and excessive waste production. Each meal should be roughly the size of the fish’s eye to stomach – a useful rule of thumb is to feed an amount that the fish can consume within a few minutes.

Observe the fish’s body condition regularly. A healthy Zebra Shovelnose should have a gently rounded belly without appearing bloated. A sunken belly indicates underfeeding or possible illness, while a persistently distended belly suggests overfeeding. Adjust the feeding schedule and portion sizes accordingly.

Behaviour and Temperament

The Zebra Shovelnose Catfish is a solitary, predatory species that is primarily active during twilight and night-time hours. During the day, it tends to rest in sheltered areas near the substrate, becoming more active as the lights dim. This crepuscular to nocturnal behaviour is typical of large pimelodid catfish and should be accommodated by providing appropriate hiding spots and subdued lighting.

Despite its predatory nature, the Zebra Shovelnose is not typically aggressive in the sense of actively pursuing and attacking tankmates of similar size. However, any fish small enough to fit in its mouth will be eaten – this is not aggression but simply the natural feeding behaviour of a piscivore. Its mouth is deceptively large, and fish up to approximately one-third to one-half the catfish’s body length may be at risk. This is the single most important consideration when selecting tankmates.

Towards conspecifics, the Zebra Shovelnose can be territorial and aggressive, particularly in confined spaces. In very large systems (3000 litres or more), it may be possible to keep more than one specimen, but ample space and visual barriers are essential. In most home aquarium settings, keeping a single individual is the safest approach.

The fish is a powerful swimmer and will use the full length of the tank when active. It may occasionally swim vigorously against the glass, particularly when first introduced to a new environment or when startled. Providing dim lighting, adequate cover, and minimising sudden disturbances (such as banging near the tank or rapidly switching lights on and off) will help reduce stress-related behaviours.

When comfortable in its environment, the Zebra Shovelnose can become surprisingly personable. Many keepers report that their fish learns to recognise them and will approach the front glass at feeding time. This responsiveness, combined with its dramatic appearance, is a large part of the species’ appeal as a display animal.

Tank Mates

Selecting appropriate tankmates for a Zebra Shovelnose Catfish requires careful consideration of size, temperament, and habitat preferences. The cardinal rule is simple: if a fish can fit in the catfish’s mouth, it will eventually be eaten. Tankmates must be large enough to avoid predation, robust enough to coexist with a powerful fish, and tolerant of the same water parameters. The tank must also be large enough to accommodate all inhabitants comfortably, which in practice means a system well in excess of the minimum for the catfish alone.

Good tank mates

  • Oscar – Large, robust cichlid that grows big enough to avoid predation and shares similar water parameter requirements.
  • Common Pleco – Hardy, armoured catfish that occupies a different ecological niche and is generally ignored by large predatory catfish.
  • Silver Arowana – Large surface-dwelling predator that occupies different water column zones, reducing direct competition.
  • Red Tail Catfish – Another large pimelodid that can coexist in very spacious systems, though both species require enormous tanks.
  • Peacock Bass – Large, robust cichlid that is big enough to avoid predation and inhabits midwater zones.
  • Bichir – Armoured, bottom-dwelling species that is tough enough to coexist with large catfish, particularly the larger Polypterus species.
  • Flagtail Prochilodus – Large, active characin that grows to a size where it is not at risk and adds movement to the middle and upper water column.
  • Pacu – Peaceful, large-bodied characin that is far too big to be considered prey and shares Amazonian water preferences.

Fish to avoid

  • Neon Tetra – Far too small and will be consumed immediately as live food.
  • Guppy – Tiny livebearers that would be eaten within seconds of introduction.
  • Corydoras Catfish – Much too small to coexist safely with a large predatory catfish.
  • Angelfish – Not large enough to avoid predation and too delicate for a tank with such powerful tankmates.
  • Tiger Barb – Small, active fish that would be easy prey for the Zebra Shovelnose.
  • Flowerhorn Cichlid – Highly territorial and aggressive cichlid that may harass or injure the catfish, particularly around the barbels.
  • Red-Bellied Piranha – Capable of inflicting serious bite injuries on the catfish, especially during feeding.
  • Dwarf Gourami – Far too small and would be consumed as a snack without hesitation.

Breeding

Breeding the Zebra Shovelnose Catfish in captivity is extraordinarily difficult and has rarely, if ever, been achieved in home aquarium settings. The species is believed to be a migratory spawner in the wild, with adults undertaking long upstream journeys to reach specific spawning grounds. This reproductive strategy is virtually impossible to replicate in even the largest home aquaria, and most specimens available in the trade are wild-caught.

Very little is known about the specific spawning behaviour of Brachyplatystoma tigrinum. Based on what is known about related species in the genus, it is believed that spawning occurs in the upper reaches of major river systems, with eggs and larvae drifting downstream over considerable distances during development. This pelagic larval dispersal strategy is a key reason why captive breeding is so challenging – the conditions required simply cannot be replicated in a closed system.

Sexual dimorphism is poorly understood, and reliable methods for distinguishing males from females externally have not been established. Mature females may be marginally broader in the body, but this difference is subtle and unreliable. Internal examination or hormonal analysis would be needed for definitive sexing, neither of which is practical for most aquarists.

Some large-scale commercial fish farms in South America and Asia have reportedly experimented with hormone-induced spawning of Brachyplatystoma species, but documented successes with B. tigrinum specifically are scarce. If breeding were attempted, it would require an extremely large facility, sophisticated water management systems capable of simulating seasonal changes in flow, temperature, and water chemistry, and likely the use of hormonal induction protocols.

For the foreseeable future, hobbyists should consider captive breeding of this species to be impractical. Conservation efforts for the species would be better directed at supporting sustainable fisheries management and habitat protection in the species’ native range.

Common Diseases

The Zebra Shovelnose Catfish is a relatively hardy species when kept in appropriate conditions, but like all large predatory fish, it is susceptible to a number of health issues, many of which are directly linked to water quality, diet, and stress.

Bacterial infections are among the most common health problems encountered. These typically manifest as reddened areas on the skin, fin erosion, ulcers, or cloudy eyes. Poor water quality is almost always the underlying cause. Maintaining pristine water conditions through regular water changes and adequate filtration is the best prevention. Treatment usually involves improving water quality and, if necessary, the use of broad-spectrum antibacterial medications. Note that pimelodid catfish can be sensitive to certain medications, particularly those containing copper or formalin, so always research drug compatibility before treating.

White spot disease (Ichthyophthirius multifiliis) can affect this species, particularly when the fish is stressed or has been recently transported. The characteristic white cysts appear on the skin and fins. Treatment with elevated temperature (gradually raising to 30 °C) combined with the cautious use of malachite green or methylene blue at half the standard dose is typically effective. Scaleless areas of the fish are more sensitive to chemical treatments, so reduced dosing is important.

Parasitic infections, both internal and external, are a risk, particularly for wild-caught specimens. Flukes, worms, and protozoan parasites may be present when the fish is first acquired. A quarantine period of at least four to six weeks in a separate tank is strongly recommended before introducing any new specimen to an established system. During quarantine, prophylactic treatment with a broad-spectrum anti-parasitic medication may be advisable, though this should be discussed with a veterinarian experienced in fish health.

Fatty liver disease (hepatic lipidosis) is a significant concern for large predatory catfish that are overfed or fed an excessively fatty diet. Symptoms include a distended abdomen, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Prevention is straightforward: feed a varied diet, avoid fatty fish such as mackerel as staples, and do not overfeed. Once established, fatty liver disease can be difficult to reverse and may prove fatal.

Barbel erosion can occur when the fish is kept on rough substrates or in tanks with consistently poor water quality. The barbels are vital sensory organs, and damage to them can impair the fish’s ability to find food and navigate its environment. Using fine sand as a substrate and maintaining excellent water quality will prevent this issue.

Stress-related issues, including loss of appetite, colour fading, and increased susceptibility to infections, can arise from inadequate tank size, aggressive tankmates, excessive lighting, or sudden changes in water parameters. Addressing the underlying stressor is essential – no amount of medication will resolve a health problem caused by chronic environmental stress.

FAQs

How big does a Zebra Shovelnose Catfish get in captivity?

In captivity, Zebra Shovelnose Catfish typically reach 60-80 cm, though some individuals may exceed this. Growth rate depends on tank size, diet, and water quality. In the wild, specimens approaching 100 cm have been recorded. Potential keepers should plan for a fish of at least 60 cm and the tank volume required to house it comfortably for its full lifespan of 15-20 years.

Can I keep a Zebra Shovelnose Catfish in a 500-litre tank?

A 500-litre tank is only suitable for a small juvenile as a temporary growing-on arrangement. An adult Zebra Shovelnose Catfish requires a minimum of 1500 litres, and larger is strongly preferred. Keeping an adult in a 500-litre tank would cause severe stress, stunted growth, and health problems. If you cannot provide a tank of at least 1500 litres for the long term, this species is not appropriate for your setup.

What should I feed my Zebra Shovelnose Catfish?

The diet should consist of high-quality frozen or fresh whole fish (such as whitebait, smelt, or lancefish), prawns, squid, earthworms, and large sinking carnivore pellets. Avoid relying on live feeder fish, as these carry a high risk of introducing parasites and diseases. Feed juveniles daily or every other day, and adults two to three times per week. Avoid overfeeding, as obesity and fatty liver disease are common in captive predatory catfish.

Is the Zebra Shovelnose Catfish aggressive?

The Zebra Shovelnose is not typically aggressive in the conventional sense but is a committed predator that will eat any fish small enough to fit in its mouth. It can be territorial towards conspecifics, especially in smaller spaces. With appropriately sized tankmates, it is generally tolerant, though its large size and powerful swimming can intimidate more timid species. The key to successful cohabitation is ensuring all tankmates are far too large to be considered food.

Can Zebra Shovelnose Catfish be bred at home?

Captive breeding of this species is considered virtually impossible in home aquarium settings. In the wild, Brachyplatystoma tigrinum is believed to undertake long-distance spawning migrations that cannot be replicated in captivity. There are no well-documented cases of successful home breeding. Most specimens in the hobby are wild-caught. Any serious breeding attempts would likely require an institutional-scale facility, sophisticated environmental controls, and potentially hormone-induced spawning protocols.

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